British
as in bribe
something given or promised in order to improperly influence a person's conduct or decision the customs official let us know that he might be prepared to look the other way if an appropriate backhander was slipped into his palm

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of backhander After Aho was called for a retaliatory roughing penalty on Anton Lundell, Verhaeghe posted up like a basketball player and roofed a backhander past Freddie Andersen under the bar for a 1-0 lead — his 31st career playoff goal in 82 games. Michael Russo, New York Times, 21 May 2025 The center caught the pass and scored on a backhander from the top of the crease at 3:37. Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 7 Apr. 2025 As Souliere scrambled back into the crease, Ali spun and fired a backhander that found the back of the net for a 3-1 Irish lead. Patrick Donnelly, Twin Cities, 8 Mar. 2025 In the first period, after taking an outlet pass in the neutral zone from Drew Doughty, McDavid punched the turbos, blew past McAvoy and catapulted a backhander over Hellebuyck for the game’s opening goal. Fluto Shinzawa, The Athletic, 15 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for backhander
Recent Examples of Synonyms for backhander
bribe
Noun
  • In 2024, federal prosecutors charged Menendez with using his influence as a senator to help the government of Qatar with questionable real estate development deals in exchange for lavish gifts and other bribes.
    Washington Examiner Staff, The Washington Examiner, 27 Aug. 2025
  • Prosecutors allege she was involved with more than $75,000 in bribes while serving as Adams' chief adviser.
    ABC News, ABC News, 26 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Backhander.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/backhander. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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